10 Best Beginner Surf Spots In Southern California

The 10 best beginner surf spots in Southern California are not all famous. For the beginner surfer, a bit of privacy or an empty beach make practice a whole lot easier. As with any sport, beginner surfers need to start slow and not take on the big waves. These beaches offer that opportunity.

Cowells Beach. This Santa Cruz beach makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California for it's small but consistent waves. The spot is sometimes crowded, but at low tide, the majority of the surfers are beginners taking lessons.

County Line. This Santa Barbara location hits the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California for it's consistent but small waves. With an average height of only three feet, the beginning surfer can take a gentle ride to the shore on either a point or beach break wave.

The Dog Patch, San Onofre. This area is known for being a beginner surfing spot. Popular in the 1930's, the spot gained a resurgence after the Beach Boys' song "Surfing USA" mentioned it by name.

The Point. Another spot on San Onofre beach makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. While not as smooth as The Dog Patch, this spot offers small and consistent waves for the beginner who doesn't mind some company.

Lunda Bay. On the south western corner of Los Angeles county lies on of the best beginner surf spots in Southern California. Lunda Bay is a 30 mile region of beaches lined with homes, not tourist attractions. This area has consistent waves which break away from shore.

Bolinas. This rather isolated area in Marion county makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. The distance from civilization keeps the surfing population down and the long rolling waves are perfect for the new surfer.

Linda Mar. Also known as Pacifica State Beach, this area makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. The waves are small and the area is not a popular spot.

Carmel Beach. Located in Moneterry county this beach makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. The waves are only three to five feet high, but consistent year round.

Sands Beach. With only two to four foot waves, Sands makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. The spot is not known for its beauty as the sand is covered in seaweed and other ocean refuge.

La Jolla Shores. This legendary beach makes the list of best beginner surf spots in Southern California. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot to learn to ride.